FOOD AS INFORMATIONAL CODE FOR YOUR BODY:

hello :) dear Full Table friends:

Recently, I attended a master class on the power of nutrition where the instructor emphasized viewing food as an informational code for our bodies. This concept of "code" profoundly changed the way I perceive my relationship with food, and my body which is why we refer to our vegetables as "life-giving veggies."

This new perspective transformed my approach to eating. Rather than seeing it as a mere necessity—driven by hunger or routine—I began to feel a deeper connection with my food. I now recognize the importance of providing my body with healthy information to thrive and experience the vitality I always seek. The best part? The choice is mine—whether to send healthy codes or less beneficial ones

Dear members lets go more deeper to this concept of food as a "code" Essentially, this analogy suggests that the food we eat provides specific instructions or signals to our bodies that can affect our physical and mental functions. Here are a few key aspects of how food acts as a code:

1. Genetic Expression: Foods contain nutrients that can influence gene expression—a process known as nutrigenomics. For example, certain compounds in foods, like those found in broccoli or fatty fish, can activate or deactivate specific genes that play roles in inflammation, metabolism, and disease prevention.

2. Hormonal Balance: The types of food you eat can significantly affect hormone levels. Carbohydrates impact insulin, proteins influence growth hormones, and fats affect leptin and ghrelin, which regulate appetite. Thus, the balance of macronutrients can help manage hormonal health.

3. Microbiome Interactions: The gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in digestion, immunity, and even mood regulation, is greatly influenced by diet. High-fiber foods, prebiotics, and probiotics can help maintain a healthy gut flora, which in turn sends beneficial signals throughout the body.

4. Neurotransmitter Production: Foods influence the production of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that transmit signals in the brain. For instance, tryptophan in leafy greens, mushrooms and broccoli is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of well-being and happiness.

5. Immune System Modulation: Certain nutrients and non-nutrient compounds in foods can enhance or suppress immune function. Vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like zinc and selenium, are known to support immune health, while other foods might contain compounds that can reduce inflammation or enhance immune surveillance against diseases.

6. Energy Metabolism: Every cell in the body needs energy to function, and the nutrients we consume are converted into energy through various metabolic pathways. The efficiency and type of these metabolic reactions are influenced by the kinds of foods we eat.Amazing right? for me this is enough reason to be on top of my consumption of giving life food.

Lets see what are the information codes that CUCUMBERS give to your body:

Cucumbers, often under appreciated for their nutritional value, and they send several beneficial "codes" to the body. Here are some of the key messages they convey:

1. Hydration: Cucumbers are about 95% water, making them excellent for promoting hydration. This high water content helps regulate body temperature, transport nutrients, and remove waste products.

2. Anti-inflammatory: They contain various antioxidants, including flavonoids and tannins, which can reduce inflammation and potentially lower the risk of various chronic diseases.

3. Skin Health: The silica in cucumbers is essential for healthy skin. They also provide vitamin C and folic acid, which aid in stimulating new cell growth and maintaining skin health.

4. Bone Health: Cucumbers offer a source of vitamin K, essential for bone health as it helps in calcium absorption and bone mineralization.

5. Detoxification: Their high water content and dietary fiber may aid the body’s natural detoxification processes, helping to flush out toxins through the urinary system.

6. Weight Management: Being low in calories but high in fiber, cucumbers are ideal for those looking to manage their weight. The fiber increases satiety, helping reduce overall calorie intake.

Here are three easy cucumber recipes that are refreshing, nutritious, and simple to prepare:

1. Cucumber Salad with Dill and Lemon

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and red onion.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped dill.

3. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions, tossing to coat evenly.

4. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

2. Chilled Cucumber Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine cucumbers, yogurt, garlic, mint, and lemon juice.

2. Blend until smooth.

3. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Chill the soup for at least one hour in the refrigerator.

5. Serve cold, garnished with additional mint if desired.

3. Cucumber and Avocado Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1 ripe avocado, mashed

• Whole grain bread

• Fresh dill, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread slices to your liking.

2. Spread mashed avocado evenly on one slice of bread.

3. Arrange cucumber slices over the avocado.

4. Sprinkle with chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Add a few drops of lemon juice if using.

5. Top with the other slice of bread.

6. Cut in half and serve immediately.